A bump to the elbow can trigger a surprising jolt of pain and tingling down the arm. That's because the "funny bone" isn't actually a bone. According to Madeline Tadley, MD, hand and upper extremity surgeon at HSS. 

"The ulnar nerve is one of the major nerves that provides function to the hand. It provides sensation to the small and ring fingers and controls the small muscles of your hand for fine movements."

The nerve passes through a vulnerable area near the elbow, making it easy to irritate with a simple bump. When that happens, "The painful nerve sensations are often described as burning, electric shocks, or pins and needles," said Dr. Tadley.

When the nerve is irritated, "the painful nerve sensations are often described as burning, electric shocks, or pins and needles," Dr. Tadley noted. While symptoms usually resolve quickly, persistent pain, tingling, or numbness may warrant evaluation by a specialist.

Read the full article at rd.com.